German babies killed by poisoned drips

Two babies are dead and five more are fighting for their lives after being fed contaminated food at a hospital in Germany.

Dr Norbert Pfeiffer, of the university clinic in Mainz, said the babies were on nourishment drips but they accidentally became contaminated with a bacterium that affects the stomach.

Ten babies and one child of five were fed the poisoned nutrient solution. Dr Pfeiffer said the two dead children were eight months and two months old: "Both were receiving attention in intensive care due to their serious conditions."

He added: "I believe that the contamination happened in the production process. We are shocked and saddened at what has taken place. Our sympathies go out to the parents and other family members of the children."

The other babies are on a shock course of antibiotics to try to save their lives.

The nourishment solution has been suspended from use and hospital workers could face charges of negligent homicide and causing bodily harm. A police commission has been formed by the local public prosecutor to investigate.